list in order of preference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "list in order of preference" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to provide a list of rankings or priorities. For example, "Please list in order of preference the types of activities that you would like to participate in this summer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Its wish list, in order of preference, is Notre Dame, Arkansas and Brigham Young, according to a person with firsthand knowledge of the Big 12's discussions.

The New York Times - Sports

Over 8,000 students submitted their Ucas choices through Whatuni.com's online 'Final 5' tool where prospective undergrads were requred to list, in order of preference, the top five institutions they would be sending an application to.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Food

Listed in order of preference in each category.

The New York Times - Food

The six wines here are listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Food

These six wines are listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Style

The following wines are listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Food

These six bottles are listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Food

Otherwise, the restaurants are simply listed in order of preference in each town.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The six wines in the accompanying table are listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Food

The six tawnies in the accompanying table are listed in order of preference.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "list in order of preference", ensure the criteria for preference are clear to the reader to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify whether the preference is based on cost, efficiency, or personal taste.

Common error

A common mistake is failing to explain why items are listed in a particular order of preference. Always provide context or criteria, such as "List these features in order of preference based on their impact on user experience".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "list in order of preference" functions as an instructional phrase, commonly used to request a ranked arrangement based on individual or collective choices. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "list in order of preference" is a widely accepted and frequently used way to instruct someone to rank items based on their desirability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and applicable across various contexts. While alternatives like "rank by preference" or "prioritize according to choice" exist, this phrase maintains clarity and neutrality, making it suitable for both formal and informal settings. When using the phrase, ensure the criteria for preference are well-defined to avoid ambiguity and enhance effective communication. Its frequent appearance in news media, scientific publications, and formal business documents underscores its versatility and broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rank by preference

Replaces "list" with "rank", emphasizing the ordering action.

prioritize according to choice

Uses "prioritize" and "choice" for a slightly more formal tone.

arrange by preferred option

Emphasizes the arrangement based on preferred option.

sort based on desirability

Uses "sort" and "desirability" to highlight attractiveness.

order by personal selection

Highlights individual selection as the basis for the order.

grade by inclination

Employs "grade" and "inclination" suggesting a scoring of preference.

classify according to favorites

Focuses on classifying based on what is favored.

sequence by best loved

Uses "sequence" and "best loved" to express strong preference.

catalog by top picks

Implies a cataloging of items that are considered top picks.

establish a preference-based hierarchy

More formal and academic, emphasizing a structured ranking system.

FAQs

How can I use "list in order of preference" in a sentence?

You can use "list in order of preference" to instruct someone to rank items based on their desirability. For instance, "Please "list in order of preference" the features you'd like to see in the new software version".

What is a more formal way to say "list in order of preference"?

A more formal alternative is "prioritize according to choice". For example, "Prioritize the following tasks according to their impact on project completion".

What are some alternatives to "list in order of preference"?

You can use alternatives like "rank by preference", "sort based on desirability", or "arrange by preferred option".

When should I use "list in order of preference" versus "list in order of priority"?

"List in order of preference" is best when choices are based on subjective tastes or desires, while "list in order of priority" is more appropriate when choices are based on objective importance or urgency. Preference implies personal taste, while priority implies necessity.